Clarity of mind, purpose, and direction begins with asking ourselves the fundamental question, “Why am I here?” states Tan Yong Soon in his 2025 book, Public Service Leadership. How does asking the question help us be successful leaders:
• Foundation for Self-Discovery: Asking “Why am I here?” initiates a journey to understand our values, motivations, and core identity.
• Aligns Actions with Purpose: When we know our purpose, our daily actions gain meaning, driving us toward fulfilling outcomes.
• Creates a Clear Direction: Purpose defines where we are headed, giving structure to our goals and the steps to reach them.
• Encourages Integrity: A purpose-driven life aligns thoughts and actions, fostering a sense of consistency and honesty.
• Connects Us to the Bigger Picture: Considering our purpose often broadens our focus, encouraging contributions to society or the environment.
• Allows Flexibility: Purpose is dynamic; it evolves as we grow and change, adapting to new circumstances and insights.
• Grounds Us in Uncertainty: A clear purpose serves as an anchor, helping us navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
Reflecting on “Why am I here?” provides direction and motivation, empowering us to live with intention and integrity. It sets the scene for a better question, which is “What do I want my leadership to do?”